Pehli Raat: Embracing the Islamic New Year

In the Dawoodi Bohra tradition, Pehli Raat—the eve of the Islamic New Year—holds profound spiritual and communal significance. Observed on the 1st of Muharram, this night serves as a bridge between reflection on the past and aspirations for the future. While the subsequent days are marked by solemn remembrance of Imam Husain's martyrdom in Karbala, Pehli Raat offers a moment for families to gather, express gratitude, and seek blessings for the year ahead.

Historical and Spiritual Context

The Dawoodi Bohras, tracing their spiritual lineage to the Fatimi Imams of Egypt, have preserved traditions that intertwine faith and daily life. Pehli Raat is not merely a cultural festivity but a manifestation of gratitude towards Allah for His bounties. The communal meal, or thaal, becomes a medium through which families express thankfulness and unity, setting intentions (niyyah) for the coming year.

The Thaal: A Symbol of Unity and Blessings

Central to the Pehli Raat observance is the preparation of the thaal—a large, circular metal platter shared by family members. The thaal embodies the principles of equality and togetherness, as everyone partakes from the same dish, reinforcing communal bonds.

Key Elements of the Thaal

• Variety of Dishes: Traditionally, the thaal comprises an array of dishes, often numbering 21, 51, or even more, symbolizing abundance and diversity of Allah's blessings. The sequence of serving alternates between mithaas (sweet) and kharaas (savoury) items, culminating in the main course.

• Symbolic Foods: Certain items are included for their symbolic meanings:

  • Pomegranate: Representing Jannat (paradise).

  • Fish: Symbolizing water and life.

  • Wheat-based dishes (e.g., lachko): Denoting sustenance from the earth.

  • Root vegetables (e.g., radish): Signifying growth and grounding.

• Daal Chawal Palidu: A quintessential Bohra dish, Daal Chawal Palidu consists of layered lentil rice accompanied by palidu, a gram flour-based curry. This dish is a staple during Pehli Raat, reflecting comfort and tradition.

Rituals and Etiquette

• Wadhawanu: Before commencing the meal, a ritual called wadhawanu is performed. A specially prepared wadhawanu ni thaali is brought out, containing a coconut, paan (betel-nut leaf ), supari (betel nut), a silver coin, and an assortment of fruits, dry fruits, or chocolates. The person performing the wadhawanu rotates the thaali in a circular motion, from right to left, seven times in front of themselves—extending it as far as possible to encompass everyone seated around the thaal. This act is believed to ward off nazar (the evil eye) and invoke blessings upon those gathered.

• Tasting Salt: The meal begins and ends with a pinch of salt, a practice rooted in prophetic tradition, symbolizing purity and balance.

• Seating Arrangement: Family members sit on the floor around the thaal, maintaining a posture of humility and respect. The youngest often offers the salt to elders, fostering a sense of service and reverence.

• Sharing and Exchange: It's customary for families to exchange portions of their thaal with neighbors and relatives, reinforcing community ties and mutual goodwill.

Contemporary Observances

While the essence of Pehli Raat remains unchanged, modern adaptations have emerged:

• Digital Greetings: Community members exchange New Year wishes through messages, often accompanied by requests for prayers, forgiveness and well-being.

• Global Celebrations: Dawoodi Bohras worldwide, from India to California, uphold Pehli Raat traditions, adapting them to local contexts while preserving core values.

Pehli Raat encapsulates the Dawoodi Bohra community's commitment to faith, family, and fellowship. Through the shared thaal, rituals, and prayers, members reaffirm their gratitude for past blessings and express hope for the future. This tradition, rich in symbolism and communal spirit, continues to be a cornerstone of the Bohra cultural and religious identity.